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The Korean Peninsula has received a lot of attention in the tourism industry, and not only because it hosted the 2018 Winter Olympics. Seoul and other parts of South Korea have become a big draw to international travelers. With Korea's amazing influence in the global world, as well as a culture and history that's unique to this peninsula, it's no wonder why travelers are putting Korea at the top of their bucket list.

Gyeongbokgung Palace, Seoul

No trip to South Korea is complete without a visit to Gyeongbokgung Palace in the center of Seoul. Built in 1935, this was the main palace from the Joseon dynasty, and its spectacular architecture is still standing today, despite a few hiccups during the various wars and Japanese occupation. Head to the main gate, Gwanghwamun, which faces a square with the same name. Snap a picture out front and explore the palace grounds, which offer peace and tranquility away from the busy streets of Seoul.

Jagalchi Seafood Market, Busan

Busan, located at the southernmost tip of the Korean Peninsula, is known for having a more laid-back vibe than Seoul. In addition to beach parties, fun street markets and gigantic shopping malls, one reason tourists come here is to taste the city's cuisine, particularly the seafood dishes at Jagalchi Market, the largest seafood market in the country. Here hungry travelers find the freshest seafood anywhere. In the bustling streets filled with gregarious women selling their catches, buy what you want to eat and visit one of the restaurants inside the main building, where a chef will cook it up for you. This place is a symbol of Busan, and it's absolutely essential to see on a trip to Korea.

Hwaseong Fortress, Suwon

About an hour south of Seoul is the city of Suwon, which has a lot to see in itself. But if travelers need just one reason to come here, it's the Hwaseong Fortress. This place is an amazing physical piece of history, and it's a great way to learn about Korea's past.

The DMZ

The DMZ, or the Demilitarized Zone, is one of the most heavily guarded borders on the entire planet. Located near the city Daeseong-dong, it marks the border between North and South Korea. There are a lot of things to see here, but the coolest thing is the city of Pyongyang, the capital of North Korea, which you can see from the DMZ on a clear day.

Ceramics Village, Icheon

Ceramics have always been an important part of Korean culture. Even today, people ferment the foods they make in traditional earthenware jars. To see the place where this all started, head to the Ceramics Village in Icheon (not to be confused with Incheon), which was the center of Korean pottery from 1392 to 1910 and is still a huge center today. The village itself is a sight to see, with store after store selling traditional handmade ceramics.

Gangnam, Seoul

Seoul has exciting nightlife and shopping districts, but none are nearly as famous as the Gangnam District. This neighborhood is where all the action happens in the city of Seoul. From bright neon billboards to tall buildings, narrow alleyways, loud clubs and even disco bowling, it's clear what "Gangnam style" is all about.

Nami Island, Seoul

Thirty minutes from Chuncheon, the capital of Gangwon-do, is Nami Island, a beautiful place that was formed after the construction of the Cheongpyeong Dam. Not only is General Nami buried here, but it's also a destination that welcomes visitors who want to escape technology. That's because this place has no telephone poles, and its tree-lined streets – which are not accessible by car – make for an amazing place to walk. From Nami Island Station, go to Gapyeong Wharf and catch a ferry from there.

Hallasan National Park, Jeju Island

Jeju Island is known as the "Hawaii of Korea" and for a good reason. With magical landscapes that look as though they've come out of a fairy tale, any trip to Jeju is an exciting experience. But the most remarkable place to see is Hallasan Mountain. It's an absolutely gorgeous site. The hike to the top is relatively easy, and hikers will see plenty of colorful flora and fauna along the way.

South Korea has so many interesting places to see. It will be hard to see them all in one trip, but there's nothing wrong with having an excuse to come back!

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About the Author

Hana LaRock is a freelance content writer from New York, currently living in Mexico. She has spent the last five years traveling the world and living abroad and has lived in South Korea and Israel. Hana has been writing about her travel experiences for several years and has been published in print magazines like Travel Ideas and Ensemble Vacations, as well as websites such as Tour Amigo, The Culture Trip, REI, and Orbitz. Hana has been to nearly 30 countries and counting. Through her experiences, she has learned to navigate the challenges that can come with visiting other countries and cultures. To learn more, visit her website at www.hanalarockwriting.com.

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